Abstract: A method is taught of determining if a potential customer is a desirable customer. The manufacturer can determine if the potential customer is a potential competitor. If the potential customer can receive technical information from the potential customer and provide a price quotation for certain goods (or services). The manufacturer can determine if the potential customer intends to use a product other than for its intended application. In an embodiment, the potential customer can initially contact the manufacturer through an electronic communication network. In accordance with one feature of the invention, a design is prepared. The design can be prepared in cooperation between the manufacturer and the potential customer or a third party can be included. In accordance with another feature, the potential customer can agree not to disclose technical information.

Abstract: A method of measuring a delay time in a semiconductor device which has a particular circuit subject to delay time measurement, a test circuit coupled to an input terminal of the particular circuit for bypassing the particular circuit, and a selector for selectively outputting either an output signal from the particular circuit or an output signal from the test circuit.